Yorkmead Junior and Infant School, located in Hall Green, Birmingham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 13 and 14, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils enjoy their time and adhere to core values such as curiosity, determination, empathy, and fairness. Students demonstrate good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school, forming strong relationships with peers from diverse backgrounds. The school prioritizes safety, with rare instances of bullying effectively managed. Pupils have access to support through various channels, including a dedicated space known as The Nest and a dog mentor named Lenny.
The leadership team at Yorkmead sets high expectations for all students, particularly in reading. The school boasts a modern library staffed by a full-time librarian, which plays a crucial role in instilling a love for reading from an early age. Phonics workshops for parents and caregivers further enhance this support, enabling families to assist their children at home. Educational trips, such as visits to Kenilworth Castle and Bath Spa, enrich the curriculum and inspire students' writing. The school has seen notable success in mathematics, with older pupils showcasing their musical talents in performances, including a concert at the Birmingham Symphony Hall.
Yorkmead's curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build on prior knowledge through carefully sequenced lessons. Reinforcement and practice are emphasized, aiding retention of information. For instance, older pupils studying castles in history recalled terms learned in earlier years, while Reception children engage in analytical activities related to dinosaurs. Phonics instruction begins as soon as children enter Reception, ensuring they acquire the necessary skills to become fluent readers. Teachers provide consistent phonics education, enabling pupils, including those who may struggle, to read books that match their current knowledge.
The school ensures that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive appropriate support. However, there is a recognition that not all pupils with such needs have been accurately identified, which may limit access to additional resources. Teachers actively assess pupils' understanding and address any gaps in knowledge, particularly in mathematics, through effective questioning techniques.
While most teachers model good spoken English and correct mistakes, there are instances where this is not consistently applied, leading to some pupils missing key learning opportunities. The school promotes oracy through discussions and partner talk, contributing to positive attitudes towards learning. Although incidents of low-level disruption are infrequent, they can occur in classes led by less experienced staff, impacting pupil concentration.
Beyond the curriculum, Yorkmead offers various extracurricular opportunities, including trips and competitions that broaden pupils' experiences. Recent events, such as a careers fair and visits to places of worship, enhance pupils' understanding of the wider world and promote values such as tolerance and respect. However, the explicit teaching of fundamental British values could be improved to ensure a deeper understanding among pupils.
Leaders prioritize staff well-being and workload management, with governors actively supporting the school. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with trained leaders ensuring pupil safety and prompt identification of those at risk. Overall, while Yorkmead Junior and Infant School demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in consistency of staff practices and the identification of pupils with additional needs.
